Culture of welcome to be celebrated in Refugee Week

The thousands of people who welcome asylum seekers and refugees
into Britain will be celebrated during Refugee Week next week,
writes Clare Jerrom.

Refugee Week, which begins next Monday 20th June, will bring
together host and refugee communities to highlight the contribution
made by people who come to the UK in search of safety.

Almir Koldzic, UK co-ordinator of Refugee Week, said: “As
a refugee myself, I know that British Society is not as narrow
minded and mean spirited as some sections of the press and certain
politicians would have us believe.

“True there is fear and ignorance and even hatred in some
quarters. But there is also a lot of welcoming people who
understand why refugees have to come to the UK. It is this culture
of welcome that we are celebrating in Refugee Week 2005.”

Hundreds of events, organised by charities, religious groups,
schools and community organisations, will take place across the UK
throughout next week.